The move to build a family of state-of-the-art superminis will finally bring to an end Fiat’s confused and scrappy offerings in Europe’s most important market segment.

The new models will be built on a new platform which will primarily replace the architecture used under the Grand Punto, which was a joint development by Fiat and GM. However, ageing models such as the Lancia Musa compact MPV are still based on the old Punto platform, while Fiat has not replaced the Zafira-rivalling Multipla, which was also based on a unique structure.

The new platform will be engineered for sale in both Europe and the US and, as well as the compact SUV model for both Jeep and Fiat, will sire long-awaited replacements for the ageing Fiat Idea MPV.

The new compact Fiat SUV, which is due to go on sale in 2013, will replace today’s Sedici, which itself is a badge-engineered version of the Suzuki SX4. It will also provide the basis for the next-generation Alfa Romeo Mito, which is currently built on the Grand Punto/Corsa architecture, and the future replacement for the Grand Punto.

Described by Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne as ‘leading-edge’, the new architecture be be installed at the Mirafiori factory next year and is also due to come online at the Fiat plant in Serbia, which currently builds the Mk2 Punto.